Celtic took a gigantic step toward securing their spot in the Champions League group stage as two sublime strikes from Camilo Duran and a Benjamin Nygren rocket helped clinch a commanding 3-0 win over LASK in the first leg of their play-off tie.
The Colombian attacker found the net either side of half-time after a spectacular finish from Nygren had set Martin O’Neill’s side on their way to an emphatic victory.
Despite the score line, the reigning Austrian champions had chances throughout and even had two first-half goals ruled offside. Their lively strike pairing of Moses Usor and Samuel Adeniran both posed a dangerous threat, but Celtic’s rear-guard stood firm.
New signings Mika Baur, Kasper Hogh and Duran were all given the nod to start by boss Martin O’Neill and the decision paid off, with fellow newcomer Haissem Hassan brought off the bench in the closing stages as he continues to get up to full speed.
Right-back Colby Donovan also impressed as he looked to catch the eye with new Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli watching on from the stands.
The two sides will meet again in the second leg next Tuesday in Linz. While LASK will look to respond in back on home soil, Celtic's polished display and comfortable cushion has increased their qualification prospects after falling short at this stage 12 months ago.
We give each player a mark out of ten for their display.
9. RW: Camilo Duran (9/10)
As good an individual display as you're likely to see all season. Extremely lively off the right flank, posing the Austrians' problems with his electric pace. Looked to get on the ball as regularly as possible. Snatched at an early shot after being teed up by Nygren. Poked another effort just wide of the far post. Lasered a volley first-time into the top corner from the edge of the box to double Celtic's lead. His second goal was a thing of beauty, curling beyond the outstretched keeper from just inside the box. Celtic have got a serious player on their hands. | SNS Group
10. LW: Yang Hyun-jun (7/10)
Sporting a new blonde haircut akin to departed hero Daizen Maeda, the South Korean found himself in behind his marker on several occasions and made some intelligent forward runs. Offered a good out-ball. Subbed. | SNS Group
11. CF: Kasper Hogh (7/10)
Linked the play well, his movement off the ball was good and a real nuisance for the LASK backline. Denied a shot on goal by a last-ditch tackle midway through the first half. Deflected McGregor's shot off the inside of the right-hand post after the break. | SNS Group
12. Celtic Subs
Reo Hatate 5 - Received rapturous applause on his return to action amid recent game time struggles. Looked sharp. Scales 5 - Filled in at left-back for Tierney and didn't put a foot wrong. Tounekti 4 - Brought fresh legs out wide after replacing Yang. Ralston 3 - A late run-out for Donovan. Hassan 3 - Still looks to be getting up to speed but drifted into some dangerous areas. | SNS Group